Text and Captions by Jeffrey A. Rendall; Photos By Jeff Janas(THIS PAGE MAY TAKE SOME TIME TO LOAD IF YOU HAVE A LOW-SPEED INTERNET CONNECTION)

WILLIAMSBURG, VA - Kingsmill Resort would've looked awful strange to them -- meaning, the first group of English settlers who sailed up the James River to establish a foothold in the New World. Jamestown Settlement, North America's first permanent European colony, is just a few miles up the River -- but is literally centuries away from what the area looks like in the year 2003.

In contrast, 21st Century sailors and tourists cruising the James can't help but notice Kingsmill's magnificent golf courses, clubhouse, marina and guest accommodations occupying this beautiful stretch of shore adjacent to the storied waterway. In the centuries following Jamestown's establishment, the surrounding territories saw significant historical evolution, playing a key role in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars -- as well as serving as a major artery for commerce in the region. Kingsmill Plantation (now Kingsmill on the James Residential Community and Resort) was part of it all.

Thankfully, much of the old style charm and history is preserved for ours and future generations, to enjoy the unspoiled landscape and quaint historical lessons Colonial Williamsburg and its surrounding communities teaches. Still, as I sat on the deck of our spacious villa at Kingsmill Resort (overlooking the James), I couldn't help but marvel at how one small stretch of water could be the start of something so vast. It provides perspective on how the passing of time changes things.

If ever there was an example of how our modern society presents new comforts and luxuries over what must have existed in the early 1600's (and most of the time since), it's Kingsmill Resort. The resort was incorporated in 1975, following in the footsteps of the Kingsmill On The James residential community established a few years prior -- all part of a major land acquisition by the Anheuser Busch companies. Kingsmill Resort now boasts 400 one, two and three bedroom suites, a full service spa, a 15-court tennis center, a full service marina, three restaurants and a sports club.

Not to mention golf -- it's Virginia's largest golf resort (63 holes). The Pete Dye designed River Course opened in 1975, joined ten years later by the Arnold Palmer/Ed Seay Plantation Course and another decade later by the Tom Clark/Curtis Strange Woods Course. Here are some sights you'll see at Kingsmill:

The River Course at Kingsmill hosted the PGA Tour for many years (it now hosts the LPGA's Michelob Light Open, in early May), but the par three 5th hole rarely made an appearance before the TV cameras. What a shame.

Upon finishing up on the River Course, take a glance back down the slope. As if you could possibly forget, the Kingsmill logo reminds you of exactly where you are -- and you'll be glad for it.

From the deck overlooking Kingsmill's marina, you'll sit adjacent to the historic James River while enjoying very contemporary entertainment, libations and cuisine.

Interpretive plaques mark the historic features throughout the property. Here, you'll learn about Kingsmill Plantation -- the colonial farm that started it all.

Golf Architect Tom Clark said the nature of the ground on the Woods Course made for some interesting logistical challenges to overcome. Here, they bridged the ravine between the 10th and 11th holes, and it's a very peaceful journey.

Another beautiful sunset on the James River -- merely a drop in the waterway of time spanning the history of the Kingsmill property.

The River Course's 17th hole flanks the James River -- but there are other historical markers to remind you of the land's past. This particular patch of ground held a battery during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars.